Welcome to Episode 549 of the RV Podcast. 







We've all seen the headlines and watched the dramatic YouTube videos warning about crime and danger in the RV lifestyle, but how much of this is actually based in reality? 







After receiving a deeply concerning email from a couple whose travel dreams were nearly crushed by sensationalized fear-mongering, we decided it was time to have an honest conversation about safety on the road. 







Today we're diving into the real statistics, separating the legitimate concerns from the manufactured panic that's keeping good people from living their dreams. 







Whether you're already on the road or still planning your escape, this episode will give you the facts you need to travel confidently and safely.







We’ll get into it in just a bit.







You can watch the video version from our RV Lifestyle YouTube Channel by clicking the player below.















If you prefer an audio-only podcast, you can hear us through your favorite podcast app or listen now through the player below.























RV NEWS OF THE WEEK















​New Florida KOA Shuttered by State’s Highway Plan​







Florida's KOA Holiday Campground in Panama City Beach is closing just over a year after opening because Florida plans to expand the nearby highway. The state purchased the KOA land through its power of eminent domain for the continuation of the U.S. Highway 98 expansion project, leaving the devastated KOA owners unsure of what is next.







​California Governor Vows Legal War as Senate Moves to Axe Controversial Emissions Waivers​







The RV Industry is carefully watching what happens to a bill that Senate Republicans just passed, and is expected to be signed by President Donald Trump, to revoke three vehicle emissions waivers created by California that aim to prohibit the sale of new gas powered vehicles by 2035, reduce tailpipe emissions from medium and heavy-duty vehicles, as well as limit smog pollution from trucks by creating stricter emissions standards. (The later rules would affect motor home sales in California and all states that follow California's waiver.) California's Governor has vowed to sue to keep the emissions in place, so the issue is far from over.







​Nature’s Finest! USA Today Reveals the 10 Best State Parks in America​







Everyone who loves a spectacular state park will want to check out USA Today's 10 Best State Parks! First place was New York's Letchworth State Park, second was Florida's Blue Spring State Park, third was Minnesota's Gooseberry Falls State Park, and fourth was one of our favorites, Michigan's Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park​.







​Utahraptor State Park Is Now Open for Adventure!​







Speaking of state parks, Utah's much-anticipated Utahraptor State Park is now officially open! The park has 67 campsites and is located 15 miles northwest of Moab National Park.







RV CONVERSATION OF THE WEEK















This week we're talking about crime and RV life because of a really troubling email we got from a couple.